Cognitive function on Activies of daily living among persons with demetia in Korea

Abstract

Declined memory and cognitive function among persons with dementia (PWDs) contribute significantly to daily function, such as physical and instrumental activities of daily living (ADLs). The purpose of this study was to examine the predictive relationship of cognitive function to physical and instrumental ADLs in Korean PWDs. This study used a cross-sectional design with a non-probability dyads sample of PWDs and their formal and informal caregivers solicited from local nursing homes and adult day cares in Korea. A convenience sample of 330 PWDs (female 78.2%; male 21.8%) was recruited, if they 1) were over the age of 50, 2) had medical diagnosis of dementia, and 3) were able to walk independently. Cognitive function was assessed by Korean translated version of Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and physical and instrumental ADLs were measured by physical dependency and instrumental ADLs. Mean age and MMSE score of PWDs were 78.24 years (SD=8.0), and 13.50 (SD=7.0), respectively. ANOVA was used to evaluate the scores of ADLs by the level of cognitive function (mild, moderate, and severe). Mean scores of physical dependency in ADLs (F=37.18, p=000) and instrumental ADLs (F=31.79, p=.000) were significantly different by the level of cognitive function. Two simultaneous multiple regression analyses were conducted separately for physical ADLs and Instrumental ADLs. Cognitive function was the strongest predictor for both physical ADLs (Beta = -.34, p=.000) and Instrumental ADLs (Beta = -.32, p=.000). Wanderer and current living place was the second strongest predictor for physical ADLs (Beta =.21, p=.001) and instrumental ADLs (Beta =.19, p=.001), respectively. Both simple and reliable measurements interviewing caregivers were useful to evaluate the predictive relationships between cognitive function and activities of daily living among PWDs. Using a larger random sample, replication of this study is necessary to confirm the findings obtained.